Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has predicted an India-Pakistan final at the 2023 ODI World Cup, slated to take place later this year. Akhtar also wants Pakistan to take revenge on India. The former cricketer has said that he wants the Babar Azam-led team to avenge Pakistan’s defeat at the 2011 World Cup. Notably, India had defeated Pakistan in the semifinal of the quadrennial event to book themselves a spot in the summit clash which they eventually won.
Akhtar also hoped for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to find an amicable solution to the current tussle between the two teams. Notably, after BCCI Secretary Jay Shah made it clear last year that India won’t travel to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup it is not moved to a neutral venue. PCB, in reply, also threatened to pull out of the ODI World Cup. However, there is still too much confusion about the matter. But Akhtar thinks both teams will travel to opposite camps.
"India and Pakistan will play the final in the Asia Cup and also in the World Cup. India will come to Pakistan (for Asia Cup) and Pakistan will also travel to India for the World Cup. I am very hopeful that things will improve between India and Pakistan, and trade will open. I urge people from both sides to spread positivity and close the gap instead of burning bridges," Akhtar told Sports Today.
"I want to take revenge for the 2011 World Cup, I hadn't played in that match. I want to watch the India vs Pakistan final in Wankhede or Ahmedabad, wherever it happens in India. I will try my level best to watch the final," the pacer further said.